Brooke and I first met at the Air Force Academy, where we bonded over four years of gymnastics. Our friendship truly flourished when we were both stationed at Fort Meade, MD, for our first assignment—turning teammates into lifelong best friends. I can always count on Brooke to be honest, loyal, and to push me to be my best self. She also has this unique ability to hold people accountable in such a kind & nurturing way... a true skill if you ask me! Brooke embodies what it means to be an unwavering friend and a light in my (or anyone's) life!
Rachel Sonczalla - Matron of Honor
Rachel and I crossed paths at the Air Force Academy, but with her being a year behind me, we only knew of each other. That all changed when she was assigned to Fort Meade, MD, where I may or may not have coerced her into living in the same apartment complex as me. From that moment on, we became inseparable. Rach is such a positive person and knows exactly what to say in times of need. Having being in a long distance relationship herself, Rachel was my rock during the ups & downs throughout my long distance with Mike - could not have done it without her!
Jessica Clendening - Bridesmaid
Jess and I (along with Brooke :) were on the Air Force Academy's gymnastics team, but our bond truly solidified during our senior year. The summer of 2022 brought us even closer when she interned in D.C., giving us the perfect excuse for endless adventures. I always tell her this, but Jess has been a role model for me in many facets of life: academics, leadership, and her marriage with Ryan. I’m so grateful for her friendship and can’t wait to have her by my side on this special day!
Anna Baldinger - Bridesmaid
As Mike’s big sister, Anna definitely intimidated me at first—but that didn’t last long! From day one, she made me feel so welcomed and included in their family. She’s my go-to for all things fashion (seriously, if she recommends it, I’m wearing it) and the perfect partner for a fun night out. I couldn’t be more excited to officially call her my sister!
Mike: Anna is my sister and my other best friend. I am so lucky to have grown up under her care and terror. She is the funniest person I have ever met (not an exaggeration), and the most loving sister. She is always there for me, and is my favorite roommate (post high school…chill Billy). To add to Heidi, she is my fashion advisor too, and always helps me be less ugly. I’m so lucky to be her brother and share this awesome day together.
Katlyn Sand - Bridesmaid
Katlyn has been part of my life for as long as I can remember—she started dating my brother in 2009, making her the bridesmaid who’s known me the longest! Over the years, she’s become more than just family; she’s a true friend. Like Rachel, Katlyn is a consistently positive person and goes above & beyond to support others. Katlyn and Corry's relationship has been such an incredible example for Mike and me, and I’m so grateful to have her by my side on this special day!
Kate Sand - Bridesmaid
Kate’s dedication to equestrian sports is something I’ve always admired—it reminds me of the passion and discipline I’ve had for gymnastics. Beyond that, her calm presence and even keel are exactly what I’ll need on the big day. Kate and Travis's relationship has been a model for us, showing how to navigate challenges with resilience and perseverance. I’m so lucky to have her as both family and a bridesmaid!
Billy Baldinger - Best Man
Billy is my best man and the best man I know (who isn't my dad). The best representation of our close bond was our continual choice to be roommates until I left for college. Yes...our home had a spare room. Billy may be my younger brother, but I truly look up to him as a role model. Despite allegedly beating me in a ping-pong match to 1000 points (still contested), I am honored to stand next to him at my wedding.
Tommy Grias - Groomsman
Tommy is my cousin. However, through going on countless vacations and spending almost every Christmas together, he is more like a brother to me. Tommy is one of the kindest people I know. He also serves as an excellent middle-man when Billy and I are exchanging punches. I'm very lucky to have a groomsman like Tommy.
Michael Suarez - Groomsman
Michael and I met a few years ago when he started dating my roommate at the time...my sister Anna. We instantly hit it off given that we share the same very unique name. He is the chillest guy I know, has a killer stache, and I'm very lucky to have him as a groomsman on the big day.
Corry Sand - Groomsman
Corry is Heidi's older brother, and the middle child like me. I was pretty intimidated to meet both of Heidi's grown up brothers for the first time. However, since my first interaction with them I have always felt accepted. Corry is extremely selfless in all aspects of his life. Seeing him as a husband and a father is beyond inspirational. He sets a great example for how I want to be as a husband to Heidi and a father to our future kids. Corry also has a kick ass beard and provides necessary facial hair that my best man lacks.
Travis Sand - Groomsman
Travis is Heidi's oldest brother. He is an incredible husband and a leader within the Sand family. Born in the 80s, he provides the much needed wisdom to an immature group of groomsmen. Travis is easily one of the funniest story tellers I have ever met, and I look forward to becoming brothers.
Adam Barrie - Pastor
Adam is one of my best friends. I met him around the same time that I met Heidi, and we all quickly formed a strong friendship. Adam is genuinely kind, loving and hilarious. Additionally, Adam is an incredible dance partner at every wedding we attend together (Heidi’s and my wedding will be no different). His deep knowledge of Heidi and I as individuals and a couple, as well as his strong character and charisma, make him the perfect pastor to wed us.
Emma Sand - Flower Girl
Our sweet niece, Emma, will be our Flower Girl! From the moment she was born, we’ve adored her and are overjoyed to have her play a special role in our wedding. Her infectious energy and endless cuteness bring so much joy to our lives, and watching her grow over the past two years has been a gift—even from afar! A huge thank you to Corry & Katlyn for sharing your precious girl with us on this special day!